Oprah once said, “You can have it all, just not all at once.” It’s a powerful reminder that balance isn’t about doing everything all at once—it’s about making intentional choices and prioritizing what matters most, day in day out. Parenthood and C-suite leadership often feel like running two marathons at the same time – one in stilettos and the other in sneakers (or the other way round sometimes). Both demand focus, energy, and heart, leaving many women wondering if they’re doing enough in either role.
The truth? Success isn’t about having it all; it’s about defining what “all” means to you and knowing when to lean into your career and when to lean into family. Forget the tired clichés about “work-life balance”, modern leadership – and modern parenting – requires blending the two worlds with adaptability, self-awareness, and a willingness to let go of perfection. It’s about showing up fully, whether you’re in the boardroom or the playroom, and being okay with the occasional mess along the way.
We spoke to Audrey Daumain, creator of the Smart Perspective communication programme for leaders, who rose to the highest echelons in leadership at Rothschild before going it alone and launching her own leadership communication consultancy. Audrey balances her job, which requires global travel and long hours, with parenting two daughters. She says: “This guide is not about chasing an impossible ideal. Instead, it’s about practical strategies to help you create harmony between your work and family life, so you can lead and parent with confidence.” Here are Audrey’s eight ways to get started.
Embrace Imperfection and Seek Feedback
Guilt is an ever-present companion for working parents, who often feel pulled in multiple directions. You are not less committed than others when you take time for your family!
Releasing the notion that perfection is important. Instead, reframe your perspective—your professional achievements complement being a good parent by modeling ambition, resilience, and purpose. Ditch self-judgment and embrace imperfection as a strength. Audrey remembers a conversation she once had with her then 12-year-old daughter “Ella, I wasn’t born a mother. I became one when you were born. I am learning every day. Help me become a better mother, tell me how I am doing”. Another question you can ask them regularly is “What have I taught you lately?”. Their responses are an incredible source of inspiration!
Be kind to yourself when plans go off-track and seek feedback from your family. Beware, their responses are unfiltered. Be ready to listen, and care for what they have to say, then act!
Prioritize Predictable Family Time and Schedule Surprises
Children thrive on routines, and one of their biggest challenges is the unpredictability of a parent’s schedule. Create structured rituals like Friday movie nights, Sunday breakfasts, or game nights. Clear communication about your availability helps reduce anxiety too. Make sure you keep your promises! We are often tempted to say yes to them to shorten the conversation and move on. But they don’t forget, and then… we regret!
Think about spontaneous surprises too – like unexpected appearances at school events or pickups. Create magical moments in your agenda.
Build a Strong Support Network
It takes a village to raise a child and sustain a career. Cultivate a reliable network of family, friends, and a trustworthy nanny. Audrey says that having a great nanny and a strong network of friends providing not just childcare when needed, but emotional stability and fun for the kids is very important. Varying the options when parents are unavailable also supports a healthy day to day!
Share the Parenting Load – and Take Care of Each Other
Leadership isn’t about doing it all yourself, and neither is parenting. Share responsibilities with your partner if you have one. Equally important is supporting each other emotionally.
Partners often assume they can pick up the slack during busy times, but both have limits. Caring for each other deepens respect and prevents resentment. Imagine swapping roles—how would you feel if your needs were consistently overlooked? Balance isn’t about assuming endless forgiveness but about mutual care. It’s hard, but it is true.
Establish Boundaries with Technology
Screens can be a quick fix for busy schedules, but over-reliance risks disconnection. Set boundaries to keep children engaged in meaningful activities and conversations – with you. Leading by example will lead to deeper connections and reduce dependence on tech, again it’s not about saying no to everything, it’s about balance. Also, be mindful of time zones if working with global teams. Prioritize family commitments over late-night calls when possible.
Quality Over Quantity
It’s not about the number of hours but about the quality of moments shared. Engage in real connection. Emotional presence matters more than time. Treat one-on-one moments with children like board meetings – non-negotiable and scheduled. Whether it’s attending a school event, enjoying an outing, or having a giggle, these moments build trust and deepen bonds.
Teach Emotional Awareness and Prioritization
Help your children learn to express their emotions and communicate the urgency (or not!) of their needs. When children are self-aware, they can help you prioritize what matters most. Don’t shoulder it all yourself – make it a family journey where everyone understands and contributes to balancing needs and priorities.
Find What Energizes You
Sustaining energy is so important. Identify activities that recharge you – whether it’s exercise, working on another project, hobbies or spending time with friends – and make room for them. Making time for personal well-being enhances focus, reduces stress, and helps you show up fully for both your family and career.
In summary, C-suite leadership and parenthood are both demanding and rewarding. Audrey reminds us that we are not superwomen, nor do we need to be. Thriving in both always at the same time is a dream. We need to let go of guilt, ask for help, prioritize meaningful connections, and set healthy boundaries. Success isn’t about perfection – it’s about being present, purposeful, and adaptable.
This balance is ultimately about choices – the choice to have a career, the choice to be a parent, and the daily decisions to support both. By honoring these decisions, Audrey is proof that women can have it all. In turn, saying no to one side means saying yes to the other.
Juggle, smile and…. Breathe!
